Northland: Whangarei Waterfall

Not far from Auckland, on a stunning scenic drive lies Northland. A place kind of untouched compared to the bustle of the big city, and a beautiful way to get back in touch with nature.

Whangarei (Pronounced with a 'F' for the 'Wh' - Fangarei) is a great township with a huge harbour, rolling hillsides and great beaches nearby.

When we were there, we saw the sign for the local waterfall and quickly decided to drop in on our way further north. Little did we know what a treat we were in for.

Less than 100m from the roadside, was a smallish river, with a bridge to cross over the causeway, and as we walked to it the sound increased dramatically, then we saw the actual waterfall and were astounded that it was 'just' there.

No walk for 1km, no hillsides to climb, it was within easy reach from the carparking facilities.

We crossed the bridge, went around the other side, down the gully and to the bottom of the falls. Stopped in the water spray, and then climbed back out of the gully.

So close to nature, so easily, and such raw power, a real spectacle that we all enjoyed.